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The common council of the city of Brooklyn, having appropriated ten thousand
For the grand parade, the streets were lined with spectators, flags ornamented
many of the residences, and from the windows, which were crowned with ladies,
thousands of handkerchiefs waved.
The distribution of the medals then took place, the Mayor entrusting to
requisite numbers for each detachment of Veteran Organization to the senior
officer of each command, entitled thereto. The distribution was made in
accordance with the order of the regiments. On receipt of their medals they
partook of a substantial repast which was provided at the expense of the city,
and to which ample justice was done.
dollars for the purpose of conferring upon the surviving veterans of the war,
some token in recognition of their services to the country, a bronze medal
was decided upon, and Thursday, October 25th, was the day appointed for the
presentation. The presentation was preceded by a parade, and followed by a
banquet. About half-past 11 o'clock the Governor, the City Authorities and the
Volunteers were escorted to Fort Greene. In addition to various regiments, also
in attendance were Admirals Farragut and Bell. Colonel Fowler (of the 14th
Regiment) was also acting as special escort of honor to the veterans.
After several speeches by the Governor and Mayor of Brooklyn, Ex-Major Wood
(the original war Colonel of the 14th Brooklyn) then came forward and responded
in behalf of the veterans. Upon the conclusion of Mayor Wood's remarks, Mayor
Booth again came forward holding a little casket in his hands, with Admiral
Farragut standing beside him, announced that in ordering the bronze medals
for the soldiers and sailors, they had thought it highly proper to strike off
two in gold for the purpose of tendering their acceptance to the great
representative leaders of the loyal men of Kings County, as well as of the
state - Grant and Farragut. He then presented to the Admiral a gold medal,
of the same pattern as the others, which action was received by the assemblage
with deafening applause. The Admiral returned his thanks in a few words and
retired.
Webmaster's Note: My sincere thanks to Captain Frank Ruiz, Sr. of Company "E", 14th Reg't., NYSM for his gracious permission to use this information from his website.
